Another delay in Curl murder trial

SYCAMORE – The trial has been delayed again for William “Billy” Curl, who is accused of killing Northern Illinois University freshman Antinette “Toni” Keller in October 2010.

Judge Robbin Stuckert granted prosecutors’ request Monday to continue Curl’s trial until April 11 so prosecutors could hire and prepare an expert in forensic psychology. The trial had been scheduled to start Dec. 3, then had been rescheduled to Jan. 14 so Curl could be fitted for hearing aids.

Curl, 36, of DeKalb, is accused of murder, concealing a homicidal death, arson and criminal sexual assault in connection with Keller’s death.

Keller was last seen Oct. 14, 2010, when she told friends she was going for a walk in Prairie Park. Her burned body was found in the park two days later.

For weeks, prosecutors had been trying to prevent a defense forensic psychologist from testifying.

A judge ruled clinical psychologist Jayne Braden can testify about her diagnosis of Curl’s mental conditions, but no ruling has been made yet about how much she can say during the trial about statements Curl made to her about the crime.

Prosecutors also have contacted a potential expert of their own but that person cannot begin reviewing the case until Jan. 1, according to court records.